Originally published at: FAA Proposes Drone Restrictions Around Critical Infrastructure
The FAA has proposed new rules to restrict drone operations near critical infrastructure.
As long as this proposal doesn’t drift into restrictions for VFR airplanes. Problem is that if you allow restrictions like this from unmanned drones, how long before those who hate aircraft in general start screaming for additional restrictions. All you have to do is look how the anti-gun lobby operates to see the precedent.
If drones need to be restricted around critical infrastructure, how is it safe to allow their continued operation around non towered airports like KCVH where I often fly. I had a close encounter with a drone 10 years ago on descent into KCRQ - missed by about 50 feet going in opposite directions (filed a NASA and reported the incident to the tower with no follow-up). The drone was at 1,500 ft, flying illegally in Class C airspace. My view is that drones and GA aircraft cannot safely co-exist. The old “see and be seen” mantra doesn’t work with an object the size of dinner plate that would happily take out your windscreen and face. Even if they had ADS-B out what good would it do to know that a dangerous projectile wad too close to your flight path if you can’t see it. Drones have no place anywhere, even if limited to 400 ft. anywhere near the pattern of any airport. Unfortunately, the FAA has decided to give drones far too much leeway and seem to rule in their favor over piloted aircraft.